United Democratic Alliance candidate David Ndakwa has received a significant boost in the Malava Constituency by-election after Democratic National Alliance rival Joab Burudi Manyasi withdrew from the race and pledged his support. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced the alliance during a Kakamega ceremony attended by several regional leaders, describing the withdrawal as a pragmatic move that prioritizes constituent welfare over personal ambition.
Manyasi likened his new role to being benched by a coach, assuring followers that he would mobilize his strongholds to expand Ndakwa's voter base. Mudavadi characterized the consolidation as providing vital momentum before polling stations open, predicting that unified campaign efforts would secure a decisive win. The strategic realignment comes ahead of the official campaign deadline set by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
Both candidates committed to joint grassroots outreach during their final push, with Ndakwa praising his former opponent for demonstrating statesmanship. Political observers suggest the merger fundamentally alters competitive dynamics in what had been a contested race.
